Staff at the Rock County Library are challenging patrons to read an average of four books each month in 2023.
The “50 States Book Challenge” is for older teens and adults.
The Challenge is to read 50 books, one taking place for each state in the union. A children’s version of the 50 States Challenge is being considered.
“I want this challenge to get our users reading something that they may not normally read,” said library director Calla Jarvie. “I also thought it would be a fun way to start off the year with something new and different.”
Only one other Plum Creek Library System member, Wabasso, has previously challenged their patrons to a 50 State Book Challenge.
Tracking sheets are available at the library.
Staff are busy compiling lists of at least five books for each state. Everything on the list is available through the Plum Creek Library System either as a book, ebook or audiobook.
Books do not have to be strictly from the list. Readers can make their own selections as long as the setting criteria is met, Jarvie said.
However, a stipulation is that the book needs to be checked out of the library to count toward the challenge.
Prizes will be awarded.
Those who complete all 50 states will get a grand prize. Those who don’t finish will have one entry in a prize drawing for each state completed. The prizes will be awarded in January 2024.
“Fifty books are a lot to read in a year, so we wanted to reward everyone who participates,” Jarvie said. “When we are stuck here in the wintertime, this can be a great option for a getaway in a book.”